Podcast
Apostolic Life in the 21st Century
Hosted by David K. Bernard · EN
A podcast dedicated to helping modern-day believers live out the teachings of the first century church. This podcast is part of the teaching ministry of Dr. David K. Bernard, the general superintendent of the United Pentecostal Church International.
32episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Can You Grieve the Holy Spirit?
3d ago00:09:10Tap to summarizeWhat does it mean to “grieve the Holy Spirit,” and should Christians be concerned about it today?In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard examines Paul's warning in Ephesians 4:30: “Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.” While many believers have heard this phrase throughout their lives, its meaning is often misunderstood.Looking at the broader context of Ephesians, Dr. Bernard explains how attitudes such as bitterness, anger, unforgiveness, dishonesty, and harmful speech can hinder the Spirit's work in a believer's life. He also discusses the relationship between conviction, spiritual growth, and Christian obedience, showing why this warning remains relevant for every follower of Christ.In this episode, you'll discover:• What Scripture means by grieving the Holy Spirit • Why Paul connects this warning to everyday behavior and relationships • How the Holy Spirit works to transform believers into the image of Christ • The dangers of resisting the Spirit's conviction over time • Whether persistent disobedience can affect a person's salvation Whether you are seeking a deeper walk with God or greater understanding of the Holy Spirit's role in the life of a believer, this episode offers practical biblical insight and encouragement.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard’s full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.Apostolic Life in the 21st Century is a weekly podcast in which Dr. David K. Bernard answers questions about Scripture, theology, Christian living, church history, and contemporary issues from an Apostolic Pentecostal perspective.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.
Transcribe →What If a Parent Prohibits their Child’s Baptism?
1w ago00:09:02Tap to summarizeWhat should a pastor do when a child sincerely wants to be baptized in Jesus’ name, but a parent refuses to give consent?In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, UPCI General Superintendent Dr. David K. Bernard offers biblical and pastoral guidance for one of the most sensitive situations a church may face. Apostolic Pentecostals believe baptism is part of the biblical plan of salvation described in Acts 2:38, but pastors must also consider the God-given authority of parents, the age and maturity of the child, and the long-term spiritual impact of their response.Dr. Bernard explains why pastors should respect parental rights, follow the Golden Rule, and trust the grace and mercy of God while ministering to children and families with wisdom, patience, and compassion.If you are a pastor, parent, youth worker, or believer seeking biblical clarity on baptism, parental authority, and pastoral responsibility, this conversation provides practical insight from an Apostolic Pentecostal perspective.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard’s full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.
Transcribe →Is There Such a Thing as a Just War?
2w ago00:14:57Tap to summarizeIs war ever morally justified? Can Christians support military action while still following the teachings of Jesus?In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard examines the historic doctrine of “just war” and explores what the Bible teaches about warfare, national defense, and the use of force.Prompted by current global conflicts and the reflection that often accompanies Memorial Day, this conversation addresses questions Christians have wrestled with for centuries. Drawing from Scripture, church history, and Christian ethics, Dr. Bernard explains just war theory, the principles traditionally used to evaluate whether a war is morally justified, and how believers should think biblically about patriotism, military service, and international conflict.Topics discussed in this episode include:The fundamentals of just war doctrineWhether the Bible allows for war in certain circumstancesThe role of government in maintaining justice and orderHow Christians should approach modern military conflictsThe tension between personal forgiveness and national defenseWhether you are exploring Christian ethics, seeking a biblical perspective on current events, or simply wanting to better understand this important subject, this episode offers thoughtful and balanced insight from an Apostolic perspective.Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with Dr. David K. Bernard features biblical teaching and answers to questions about theology, Christian living, and contemporary issues.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard’s full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.
Transcribe →The Gifts of Healing: A Gift for Some or a Sign for All?
3w ago00:06:50Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard addresses an important question about divine healing and the gifts of the Spirit.In 1 Corinthians 12, the apostle Paul lists the “gifts of healing” (verse 9) among the spiritual gifts and makes it clear that not every believer operates in this gift (verse 30). Yet in Mark 16:18, Jesus said believers would lay hands on the sick and they would recover.Is healing a special ministry given only to certain individuals, or is it a sign that can follow any Spirit-filled believer? Dr. Bernard responds to this important question, offering clarity and balance on a topic that is central to Pentecostal theology and practice.For further study, see Dr. Bernard's book Spiritual Gifts, available at PentecostalPublishing.com. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.
Transcribe →Called by God or Hired by a Search Committee?
May 1100:10:49Tap to summarizeWhat does it really mean to be “called” to a ministry?In Pentecostal circles, pastors often testify that God specifically led them to a church, city, or ministry assignment. Congregations likewise take comfort in believing their pastor was divinely directed, not merely hired like someone applying for a job.But that raises an important question.After seeing a church advertise a pastoral opening on Facebook, a viewer asked: If ministry is truly a calling from God, is it appropriate to post pastor vacancies publicly like any other job opportunity? Does that diminish the sacred nature of pastoral ministry, or can churches faithfully combine spiritual discernment with practical processes?In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard examines the biblical concept of calling, the relationship between divine guidance and church decision-making, and how ministers and congregations can navigate pastoral transitions in a Spirit-led way.Whether you are a pastor, church leader, ministry student, or faithful church member, this conversation offers thoughtful insight into one of the most important aspects of church life and leadership.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard’s full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.
Transcribe →Should Apostolics Pursue Higher Education?
May 400:23:27Tap to summarizeShould Apostolics pursue higher education, or does academic study put faith at risk?In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard addresses an important question facing many in the Apostolic movement. Should higher education be approached with caution, or is it essential to the future of the church? What is the proper perspective?Drawing from his own academic journey and decades of ministry leadership, Dr. Bernard makes a compelling case for the value of education within the Apostolic Pentecostal movement. He explains why the church needs educated, Spirit-filled leaders and how believers can pursue higher education without compromising biblical convictions.He also speaks directly to those wrestling with this decision, offering practical guidance for students, reassurance for parents, and vision for leaders who care about the long-term strength of the church.Whether you’re considering college, mentoring the next generation, or thinking about the future of Apostolic ministry, this episode offers clarity, balance, and insight.Apostolic Life in the 21st Century is a podcast dedicated to answering questions about the Bible, Christian living, and current events through a biblical lens.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard’s full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.
Transcribe →Who Was Tertullian?
Apr 2700:14:05Tap to summarizeWho was Tertullian—and why does he still matter to Christians today?In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard explores the life, writings, and lasting influence of one of the most significant figures in early church history. Frequently cited in discussions about the development of the doctrine of the Trinity, Tertullian’s ideas continue to shape theological conversations centuries later.Dr. Bernard examines who Tertullian was and the role he played in shaping early Christian thought. He also addresses how certain theological terms and concepts emerged during this period, and why understanding that development is essential for interpreting Scripture accurately today.Listeners will gain insight into: • Tertullian’s background and influence in the early church • Why his writings are central to discussions about the Trinity • How his legacy impacts modern Christian belief and practiceIf you’re interested in church history, theology, or the foundations of Christian doctrine, this episode offers clear, thoughtful, and biblically grounded insight.Apostolic Life in the 21st Century is a podcast dedicated to answering important questions about the Bible, Christian living, and current issues facing the church today.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard’s full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.
Transcribe →Is the Pope Really the Successor to Peter?
Apr 2000:17:45Tap to summarizeWith the Pope once again in the global spotlight, questions about his authority—and the authority of the church he leads—are drawing renewed attention.Both the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church claim an unbroken line of leadership stretching back to the apostles. According to this view, today’s bishops—and ultimately the Pope—stand in direct succession to the apostle Peter.But how strong is this claim?In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard examines whether there is credible historical evidence for an unbroken chain of authority—and whether such a lineage, even if proven, would establish theological authority.Dr. Bernard discusses:The origins and development of apostolic succession claimsThe biblical role of Peter in the early churchThe difference between historical continuity and doctrinal authorityWhy apostolic teaching—not just succession—is essential to the identity of the churchThis timely episode brings clarity to a complex and often misunderstood topic, helping listeners evaluate competing claims through the lens of Scripture.If you’ve ever wondered how to assess claims of church authority—or what truly defines the New Testament church—this episode offers thoughtful, balanced, and biblical insight.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard’s full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.
Transcribe →Are There “Heaven or Hell” Rules for Christians?
Apr 1300:16:47Tap to summarizeAre there any “Heaven or Hell” rules Christians must follow in order to be saved? If so, what are they and how should we understand them?In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard responds to this frequently-asked question which often arises in discussions about holiness, not only among Oneness Pentecostals, but across conservative Christian communities.Dr. Bernard provides biblical insight into:The difference between living by faith and falling into legalismThe vital connection between faith and obedienceHow to approach holiness without reducing it to a checklistWhat this question reveals about how we view our relationship with GodIf you’ve ever wrestled with what God truly requires of believers, this episode offers clarity, balance, and a deeper understanding of Scripture.Apostolic Life in the 21st Century is a podcast dedicated to answering questions about the Bible, Christian living, and current issues from a biblical perspective.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard’s full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.
Transcribe →Can We Really Do Greater Works than Jesus?
Apr 600:04:57Tap to summarizeCan We Really Do Greater Works than Jesus?Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with Dr. David K. BernardIn John 14:12, Jesus made a remarkable promise: “He who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do.” But what did He mean?Jesus healed the sick, raised the dead, and demonstrated power over nature itself. How could believers possibly do “greater” works than these?In this episode, Dr. David K. Bernard provides clear, biblical insight into this passage. Rather than pointing to greater individual miracles, he explains how Jesus’ words reveal the expanded scope of His work through the church—empowered by the Holy Spirit and fulfilled through the global spread of the gospel after Pentecost.Discover how this promise applies to believers today and what it reveals about the ongoing mission of the church.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard’s full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.
Transcribe →